NIMET stresses need to harness climate information for development

Dr Anthony Anuforom, the Director-General of Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) has underscored the relevance of information on climate to the attainment of Nigeria’s Vision 20: 2020.

He made the observation on Wednesday in Abuja in his address to mark this year’s World Meteorological Day.

“It is instructive to note that most of the key deliverables of Vision 20: 2020 are sensitive to weather and climate, he said. In response to the need to contribute to realisation of the Federal Government’s economic development programmes, NIMET has been reinforcing its climate information services,” he added.

Anuforom stressed that NIMET had regularly provided information on the climate through its publications.

Anuforom conceded that although weather and climate could be hazardous to mankind, particularly if they were severe, they could also be harnessed in a beneficial manner to enhance socio-economic development.

“It is in this positive sense that the theme for 2011 World Meteorological Day: Climate for You, is considered appropriate,’’ he said. Anuforom said the choice of the theme was informed by the need to reduce risks emanating from hydro-meteorological and allied hazards like drought, floods, heat waves, famine and outbreak of diseases.

He pledged NIMET’’s sustained support for the activities of World Meteorological Organisation, which aimed at monitoring the climate across the world. He said that NIMET would also strengthen its collaboration with other meteorological and hydrological services in the country and other relevant regional institutions.